Thesis "Simulation-Based Investigation of the Kinetics of Dimethyl Ether Steam Reforming"

Be part of change

For about 30 years now, the "Sustainable Synthesis Products" department has been researching topics related to transforming our energy system toward a hydrogen economy. In this context, dimethyl ether (DME) represents a promising option due to its high hydrogen storage capacity, energy density, good handling, and non-toxic properties. To establish DME as part of the hydrogen economy, it is necessary to develop an efficient release of green-produced hydrogen at the point of demand. For this purpose, the thermochemical, heterogeneous catalytic release via steam reforming is being investigated.

The goal of the thesis is the numerical investigation of H2 production from dimethyl ether, with a focus on the key step of methanol steam reforming. The main emphasis is on systematically capturing and evaluating the current state of scientific knowledge on the kinetics and chemical equilibria of the relevant (sub)reactions. To this end, existing kinetic models will be identified, compared, and transferred into a simulation model. Finally, the models will be evaluated against available laboratory data in terms of accuracy and suitability for describing the steam reforming reaction.

For our group "Sustainable Synthesis Products" we are looking for a student assistant starting 1. August 2026, with the opportunity to pursue a final thesis for the following tasks:

• Literature review on catalytic dimethyl ether steam reforming and its side reactions, with a focus on methanol steam reforming.
• Integration of existing kinetic models into a MATLAB-based simulation platform.
• Numerical investigation of the different models.
• Analysis of results in terms of plausibility and sensitivity.
• Sensitivity analyses of the various models.
• Validation of results using experimental and literature data.
• Optimization of the simulation.

What you contribute

• You are studying chemical engineering, process engineering, chemistry, environmental engineering, or a comparable field.
• You have already gained experience with heterogeneous catalyzed reactors.
• You have basic laboratory experience.
• You possess solid knowledge in the field of process engineering as well as reaction engineering.
• You have experience with MATLAB or comparable simulation platforms.
• You have good MS Office skills.
• It is important to you to contribute to your team and achieve goals together.
• You plan and complete tasks independently and with high quality.
• Proficiency in MS Office is self-evident for you.
• You have good English skills, both written and spoken.

What we offer

• Exclusive insight: In collaboration with the scientists of our research unit, you will gain insight into the daily work of research and development at a research institute.
• Laboratory infrastructure: At Fraunhofer ISE, we work with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment so that research projects can be conducted at the cutting edge of technology.
• Research mix: You will have the opportunity to combine experimental work with theory, applying and expanding your knowledge from your studies.
• Supervision: You will be mentored by scientists in your work and will receive feedback on your progress.
• Teamwork: Through interaction with scientific and student staff, you will gain experience in working in a team and can contribute your existing experiences.
• Working hours and location: We offer flexible working hours in consultation, and occasional remote work from home.
• Equal opportunity: We value equal opportunity and provide room for diversity.
• After work: Celebrate yourself and your colleagues at after-work events or our annual staff celebrations.

In addition to the thesis, a contract as a research assistant will be established. The remuneration for this is based on the degree of the academic qualification.

We value and promote the diversity of skills among our employees and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social background, religion, ideology, disability, and sexualorientation and identity. Severely disabled persons will be given preference in case of equal qualification.

Ready for a change? Then apply now with your compelling application documents (including CV, cover letter, and references/performance records) and make a difference! After your online application is received, you will receive an automatic acknowledgment. We will get back to you as soon as possible to tell you how the process continues.

Questions about this position will gladly be answered by:
Moritz Poßmann
Tel.: +49 761 4588-2273 
moritz.possmann@ise.fraunhofer.de

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE 

www.ise.fraunhofer.de 

Requisition Number: 82683                Application Deadline: